Are you looking for a way to add some excitement to your meals? Do you want to try something new and delicious without sacrificing flavor or nutrition? Look no further than Swiss chard! This leafy green is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a great addition to any meal. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile, pairing well with everything from pasta and sausage to chicken and sweet potatoes.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 different ways you can use Swiss chard in your cooking. From hearty stews and soups to quick sautés and casseroles, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative with this amazing ingredient. So let’s dive in and discover the delicious world of Swiss chard!
Creamy Swiss Chard and Mushroom Pasta
This rich and satisfying pasta dish combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms and Swiss chard with a velvety cream sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cups fresh Swiss chard, stems removed and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp. dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic in butter until tender.
3. Add Swiss chard to the skillet and cook until wilted.
4. Stir in heavy cream and thyme; bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy sauce; season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Sauteed Swiss Chard with Lemon
A flavorful and healthy side dish that combines the earthy taste of Swiss chard with the brightness of lemon and the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Swiss chard, stems removed and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and saute for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped Swiss chard to the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic and oil.
4. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the chard has wilted and reduced in size.
5. Squeeze the lemon juice over the chard and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Swiss Chard and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the earthy taste of Swiss chard with the tanginess of feta cheese, all wrapped up in a juicy chicken breast.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups fresh Swiss chard leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together Swiss chard, feta cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the Swiss chard mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Swiss Chard and White Bean Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender greens, creamy beans, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a nutritious lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Swiss chard, chopped (about 2 cups)
– 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: crusty bread for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Swiss chard, beans, thyme, and paprika. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the greens are wilted, about 10 minutes.
4. Pour in the broth and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, with crusty bread on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Roasted Swiss Chard with Parmesan
Roasted Swiss Chard with Parmesan: A flavorful and nutritious side dish that brings out the best in this leafy green.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Swiss chard, stems removed and leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Swiss chard with olive oil, garlic, and salt until leaves are evenly coated.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until chard is tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and return to oven for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Season with pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Swiss Chard and Goat Cheese Quiche
A savory quiche filled with the earthy flavors of Swiss chard and tangy goat cheese, perfect for a brunch or light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups Swiss chard leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a skillet, sauté the Swiss chard with a pinch of salt until wilted.
4. In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and crumbled goat cheese.
5. Arrange the cooked Swiss chard in the pie crust, followed by the cream and cheese mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and the crust golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Swiss Chard and Sweet Potato Hash
This hearty hash combines the earthy flavors of Swiss chard with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, perfect for a satisfying breakfast or brunch. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a nutritious and delicious meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch Swiss chard, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 2 cloves garlic, minced (for added depth of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Add Swiss chard to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. To assemble the hash, combine roasted sweet potatoes and wilted Swiss chard mixture in a serving dish.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Swiss Chard and Lentil Stew
This comforting stew combines the earthy sweetness of Swiss chard with the nutty flavor of lentils, perfect for a cozy evening meal. The result is a flavorful and nutritious dish that’s ready in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups Swiss chard, chopped (stems included)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, water, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the chopped Swiss chard and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Swiss Chard and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
A creamy, cheesy twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines the earthy flavor of Swiss chard with the richness of ricotta cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen Swiss chard, thawed and chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped Swiss chard, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the Swiss chard-ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce, and top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Swiss Chard and Bacon Frittata
Elevate your breakfast game with this flavorful and nutritious frittata packed with sweet Swiss chard and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 bunch of Swiss chard, stems removed and chopped
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the chopped onion and diced bacon over medium heat until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the chopped Swiss chard to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the cooked vegetables in the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to set.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the frittata is fully set.
8. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with shredded cheese (if using).
9. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Swiss Chard and Chickpea Curry
This flavorful and nutritious curry combines the earthy sweetness of Swiss chard with the creamy texture of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a rich and aromatic spice blend. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Swiss chard, stems removed and chopped
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne (if using); cook 1 minute.
4. Stir in chickpeas and Swiss chard; cook until greens wilted.
5. Pour in coconut milk; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Swiss Chard and Sausage Pasta Bake
This hearty pasta bake combines the earthy flavor of Swiss chard with spicy Italian sausage, all wrapped up in a comforting layer of melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 lb. sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups Swiss chard, chopped (stems and leaves)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in Swiss chard, marinara sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Swiss Chard and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the sweetness of cornbread with the earthy goodness of Swiss chard. Perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Swiss chard, stems removed and chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, buttermilk, and egg.
4. Add the melted butter and whisk until smooth.
5. Fold in the chopped Swiss chard and corn kernels.
6. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Swiss Chard and Tomato Gratin
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the earthy sweetness of Swiss chard with the brightness of fresh tomatoes, all wrapped up in a golden-brown gratin.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Swiss chard, stems removed and chopped
– 2 large tomatoes, cored and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped chard and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced tomatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Swiss Chard and Shrimp Stir-Fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry combines the sweetness of shrimp with the earthy taste of Swiss chard, all wrapped up in a savory soy sauce-based sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Swiss chard, stems removed and chopped
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, until pink and just cooked through.
4. Add the chopped Swiss chard and stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, until wilted.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Swiss Chard and Potato Galette
This rustic galette is a perfect blend of earthy Swiss chard, tender potatoes, and flaky pastry. It’s an ideal side dish or light lunch that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Swiss chard, stems removed and chopped
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, toss together Swiss chard and potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange the potato and Swiss chard mixture in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the pastry over the filling, forming a rustic galette shape.
6. Brush the pastry with a little water and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Swiss Chard and Blue Cheese Tart
This savory tart is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, with the earthy taste of Swiss chard and the pungency of blue cheese. It’s an ideal side dish or light meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups fresh Swiss chard leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Roquefort)
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a small bowl, mix chopped Swiss chard and crumbled blue cheese.
3. Spread caramelized onions over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Top with the Swiss chard-blue cheese mixture.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust.
6. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: To caramelize onions, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add 1 large onion, thinly sliced, and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until dark golden brown.
Swiss Chard and Apple Salad with Walnuts
This refreshing salad combines the earthy sweetness of Swiss chard, the crunch of apples, and the nutty flavor of walnuts for a delightful side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups Swiss chard, stems removed and discarded, leaves chopped
– 1 large apple, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped Swiss chard and diced apple.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the Swiss chard mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the top of the salad and toss again to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of Swiss chard with these 18 delicious recipes, perfect for any meal! From creamy pasta dishes to savory soups and quiches, these ideas will inspire you to get creative with this nutritious leafy green. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting casserole or a flavorful stir-fry, there’s something on this list for everyone.
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